By Enyichukwu Enemanna
At least one million farmers from Nigeria, Kenya and Tanzania will receive support to increase yield and agricultural productivity, following a partnership deal between Nigerian authorities and Mastercard on the sideline of the ongoing 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) in New York.
The deal which seeks to advance financial inclusion and digital access to critical services is also supported by the African Development Bank (AfDB).
The initiative has transformative potential for Africa’s food security drive, leader of Nigeria’s delegation and the country’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima was quoted as saying during a meeting at the UN annual event.
“This partnership is an important milestone in our quest for comprehensive financial inclusion and agricultural empowerment.
“By leveraging Mastercard’s global expertise, we’re set to create unprecedented opportunities for farmers across Nigeria, Kenya, and Tanzania,” a statement by spokesman of the Nigeria’s Vice President, Charles Nkwocha quoted him as saying.
The Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, Dr. Folasade Femi-Lawal, said a key component of the partnership is the rollout of contactless payment systems.
“We’re planning 160 contactless payment seminars starting next February. These seminars are crucial in educating stakeholders and preparing the market for this technological leap,” he stated.
Heritage Times HT reports that Africa has been confronted with acute food insecurity, arising from extreme weather conditions, with parts of East and Southern Africa dangerously hit.
This has been attributed El Niño, a natural climate pattern which has led to sharply reduced rainfall in the region.
Drought in Zimbabwe and Namibia has affected cash crops in southern Africa, impacting 68 million people and causing food shortages across the region.
Both countries have resorted to killing wildlife, including elephants, zebras and hippos to feed communities impacted by food shortage.
L-R: Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima and the Country Manager for West Africa at Mastercard, Dr. Folasade Femi-Lawal, during a meeting with Mastercard Inc. executives on the sidelines of the ongoing 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States on Thursday.